APWA Honors National First Responders Day, Spotlighting the Essential Role of Public Works

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 27, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Public Works Association (APWA) will join communities across the US in recognizing National First Responders Day (NFRD) on October 28.

While police, fire, and EMS are often the three most recognized first responders, public works is also there—the first in and last out in their role as critical responders. From clearing roads and maintaining access routes to restoring water, wastewater, transportation, and other essential infrastructure systems, public works teams help protect public health and safety when communities need them most.

Presidents George Bush and Barack Obama officially recognized public works professionals when they issued policy directives stating this fact.  

"Public works professionals play an indispensable role in keeping communities safe and operational before, during, and after emergencies," said APWA President Robert Garland, PE. "Some of their work may not be seen by the public, but they are there working closely with other first responders to ensure critical services remain available and communities recover as quickly as possible. We proudly recognize the contributions of public works personnel whose commitment to serve makes a meaningful difference every day."

NFRD provides an opportunity to increase public awareness of the vital work performed by public works professionals, police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. It also encourages civic leaders, residents, and future generations to better understand the importance of these careers and the services they provide.

In support of this day, APWA has created a President's video message, a social media toolkit, an official Public Works First Responder symbol, First Responder merchandise, sample radio PSAs, and an NFRD sample proclamation that cities and towns can submit to their governor's or mayor's office to spread the message of public works first responders. All support materials may be accessed here.

"Public works professionals continue to improve the quality of life for all through their responsiveness during a disaster or emergency. When a storm hits, public works personnel are the first ones out plowing snow from the streets, removing debris from roads, and restoring streetlights after a storm. They are clearly part of the first responder team working hand in hand to restore a sense of normalcy after a nature or manmade disaster strikes," said APWA CEO Scott D. Grayson, CAE. "National First Responders Day provides an important opportunity to elevate awareness of the profession and to thank all whose service helps communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies."

To learn more about public works as first responders, please visit this webpage.

For additional information about APWA, please contact Jared Shilhanek, APWA Chief Growth Officer, at [email protected] or by phone at (816) 595-5257.

About APWA
The American Public Works Association (apwa.org) is a not-for-profit, international organization of more than 33,000 members involved in the field of public works. APWA serves its members by promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy, and knowledge exchange. APWA was named one of the "Best Nonprofits to Work For 2026" by The NonProfit Times. APWA is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, has an office in Washington, DC, and 62 chapters and 97 branches throughout North America.

Media Contact: Jared Shilhanek
Chief Growth Officer
(816) 595-5257
[email protected]

SOURCE American Public Works Association